Where can I find the Cloak of Protection in Baldur's Gate 3?

The Cloak of Protection is a highly valuable magical item in Baldur's Gate 3, offering a +1 bonus to both Armor Class (AC) and saving throws. This makes it a versatile and powerful piece of equipment for any character, as it enhances both survivability and resistance to harmful effects. Finding the Cloak of Protection requires careful exploration and interaction with the game world, as it is not immediately obvious or easily accessible. Below is a detailed guide on how to locate this item, along with tips and considerations to help you along the way.

To find the Cloak of Protection, you need to venture into the Underdark, a dangerous and mysterious area filled with hostile creatures and challenging encounters. The Underdark can be accessed through several routes, but one of the most straightforward paths is through the Goblin Camp. After dealing with the goblins and their leaders, you can descend into the Underdark via the Sel├╗nite Outpost. Once in the Underdark, you will need to navigate through its treacherous terrain to reach the Myconid Colony, a safe haven inhabited by peaceful mushroom-like creatures.

In the Myconid Colony, you will encounter a character named Sovereign Spaw, the leader of the Myconids. Sovereign Spaw will offer you a quest to deal with a group of duergar who have been causing trouble in the area. This quest, titled "Defeat the Duergar Intruders," is crucial for obtaining the Cloak of Protection. To complete the quest, you must travel to the duergar camp and eliminate their leader, Thulla. Thulla is located near the Sussur Tree, a distinctive landmark in the Underdark. Defeating Thulla and her followers will not only complete the quest but also reward you with the Cloak of Protection.

When approaching the duergar camp, it is important to prepare your party for combat. The duergar are tough opponents, with abilities like Invisibility and Enlarge that can make them particularly challenging to deal with. Ensure that your party is well-equipped with healing potions, scrolls, and spells that can counter these abilities. For example, spells like Faerie Fire can reveal invisible enemies, while area-of-effect spells like Fireball can help you deal with multiple foes at once. Additionally, having a character with high Perception can help you detect hidden enemies and traps, giving you an advantage in combat.

Once you have defeated Thulla and her duergar allies, return to Sovereign Spaw in the Myconid Colony to report your success. Sovereign Spaw will reward you with the Cloak of Protection as a token of gratitude. This cloak is a significant upgrade for any character, as the +1 bonus to AC and saving throws can make a noticeable difference in both combat and exploration. For example, a character with a base AC of 16 will now have an AC of 17, making them harder to hit. Similarly, the +1 bonus to saving throws increases your chances of resisting harmful spells and effects, such as poison or charm.

When equipping the Cloak of Protection, consider which character in your party will benefit the most from its bonuses. Characters who are frequently targeted in combat, such as front-line fighters or spellcasters, are ideal candidates for this item. Additionally, the cloak's bonuses stack with other sources of AC and saving throw bonuses, so it can be particularly effective when combined with other protective gear or spells. For example, a character wearing the Cloak of Protection and casting the Shield spell can achieve a temporary AC of 22, making them extremely difficult to hit.

One common mistake to avoid is underestimating the difficulty of the duergar encounter. The duergar are formidable foes, and rushing into their camp without proper preparation can lead to a quick defeat. Take the time to scout the area, set up ambushes, and use the environment to your advantage. For example, you can use high ground to gain a tactical advantage or lure enemies into chokepoints where they can be easily dealt with. Additionally, make sure to rest and recover before engaging in combat, as having full health and spell slots can make a significant difference in the outcome of the battle.

Advanced techniques for optimizing the use of the Cloak of Protection include combining it with other items and abilities that enhance survivability. For example, pairing the cloak with the Ring of Protection, which also provides a +1 bonus to AC and saving throws, can further increase your character's resilience. Additionally, characters with abilities like Uncanny Dodge or Evasion can make particularly good use of the cloak's bonuses, as they are already focused on avoiding damage and resisting effects.

In terms of D&D 5E rules, the Cloak of Protection functions similarly to its tabletop counterpart. It provides a +1 bonus to AC and saving throws, which are calculated as part of your character's overall defenses. This means that the cloak's bonuses are applied after other modifiers, such as Dexterity or spell effects, making it a versatile and reliable source of protection. The cloak's bonuses also apply to all saving throws, including those against spells, traps, and environmental hazards, making it a valuable asset in a wide range of situations.

In conclusion, the Cloak of Protection is a powerful and versatile item that can significantly enhance your character's survivability in Baldur's Gate 3. By completing the "Defeat the Duergar Intruders" quest in the Underdark, you can obtain this valuable piece of equipment and give your party a significant advantage in combat and exploration. With careful preparation, strategic combat tactics, and thoughtful equipment optimization, you can make the most of the Cloak of Protection and ensure your party's success in the dangerous world of Baldur's Gate 3.